What Is A CNC Milling Machine?

CNC Milling Machines are incredibly useful pieces of machinery for both commercial and industrial production. The aerospace industry, the medical industry and the electronics industry are all able to benefit from the products of CNC Milling – but how do these machines operate, and what makes them so unique?

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control milling. This means that the milling machine is moved and monitored by numerical computer control rather than by hand. CNC milling tools perform a machining process similar to drilling and cutting parts with incredible precision, leaving no room for human error. The process is an increasingly popular industrial solution since it can accommodate exact sizes and shapes of all kinds of material.

 

How Do CNC Milling Machines Work?

Now you know what a CNC milling machine is, it is also important to understand how they work.

A CNC milling machine uses a rotating cylindrical cutter to move along multiple axes and create slots, holes and details in material to turn it into a vehicle or mechanical part. Most machines operate on three to five axes, creating more precision and detail.

Modern CNC milling machines are assembled as both horizontal and vertical machining centres. Components can be made with materials such as plastics, ceramics, composite materials, and metals. Technical features include automatic tool changers, tool carousels and magazines, coolant systems, and enclosures to keep machines running smoothly on their own without manual interference.

 

What are the different types of CNC Milling Machines?

Did you know that there are different types of CNC milling machines? So, there could be a type best suited to your needs and requirements. Learn more about the different CNC milling machine types here, and get in touch if you have more questions about which machine may be best suited for your needs.

Vertical CNC Milling Machine

The CNC milling machine’s orientation significantly affects the final product. A vertical mill is a very standard type of milling machine, meaning that the spindle axis on the mill is vertically oriented. Vertical CNC milling machines usually have long and thin cutting tools.

Horizontal CNC Milling Machine

The opposite of the vertical CNC milling machine is the horizontal machine which has much shorter and thicker cutting tools.

However, Horizontal mills are less versatile and are typically much better suited for long material work, often used to cut gears or for axle machining.

Turret CNC Milling Machine

Turret mills work vertically, and their spindle does not move. At the same time, their table adjusts parallel and perpendicularly to do the cutting job.

CNC Turret milling machines are most effective when they remain relatively small. They are best suited to detailed work, such as creating parts for toys and plaques.

CNC Bed Milling Machines

CNC Bed mills are similar to Turret milling machines. Still, the below table only adjusts perpendicularly to perform the cutting, meaning they can be built larger since their frame is more rigid than the Turret.

A larger build machine allows for larger jobs, so Bed mills are perfect for milling parts for mid-sized electronics that the Turret mills couldn’t handle.

 

The Difference Between 3-Axis and 5-Axis CNC Lathe Machines

On top of the different CNC machines listed above, there are also different numbers of axis available for CNC machines. Although you can get CNC machines with larger numbers of axis, 3 and 5-axis CNC lathe machines are the most popular.

Both 3-axis and 5-axis CNC lathe machines remove excess material from a workpiece by moving along the X, Y and Z axis. However, the 5-axis CNC lathe machine also utilises the A and B axes to eliminate the need to reposition the workpiece for different operations manually. Both machines are efficient and effective, but the 5-axis CNC lathe machine is designed for complex and precise parts. Because of this, it is favoured by the oil and gas, medical, and aerospace industries.

 

Advantages & Disadvantages of CNC Lathe Machines

Now you know how a CNC lathe machine works and the different machine types and models available, let’s dive into the advantages and disadvantages of these clever machines. Here you can find the information you need to decide if this is the right investment for your company.

How Does a CNC milling machine Benefit Business?

If you’re debating whether a CNC milling machine is the right choice for your business, you might wonder about the associated benefits. After all, are they worth the addition or even the switch from a manual milling machine? Here are some fantastic benefits you can look forward to when investing in a CNC milling machine.

Improved Quality and Consistency

As previously mentioned, Computer Numerical Control milling is incredibly precise. Small mills, such as the Turret, can be programmed to perform complex processes like cutting intricate medical machine parts with very little human interference.

All parts cut with a CNC milling machine will be uniform, meaning a consistent batch of products and few mistakes for commercial or industrial businesses to pay for. Standard milling machines are subject to the hand and, therefore, to error and imperfection.

Financial Benefit

An initial purchase of a CNC milling machine may feel costly. Still, one operator can maintain an entire workforce of machines electronically, ultimately saving labour costs in the long run. The CNC Milling process is also faster than 3D printing, with a broader range of materials available to use, meaning aerospace companies, electronics factories, and medical companies alike can reap the benefits of CNC milling in their respective fields.

What are the Weak Points of a CNC Milling Machine?

To present you with all of the information you need before purchasing a CNC milling machine, here are a few disadvantages of CNC milling machines you may need to consider. However, we believe the benefits outweigh the negatives, and if you need further advice on making the right decision for your business, get in touch with our expert team.

CNC milling machine disadvantages include;

• Cost: A CNC milling machine does come with a higher price tag, but the machine is certainly an investment. You will notice the machine begins to pay for itself as you cut costs on wasted materials and poor quality.
• Repair: In the event that your CNC milling machine does need a repair, you need a trained expert to get it back up and running. However, at DTS UK, we offer experienced services and repairs from our trained technicians.
• Trained Operator: When it comes to running the CNC milling machine, operators need to be specially trained. If you do not have anyone with sufficient experience in your team, this is a great opportunity to level up your employee’s skill set.

 

Choosing a CNC Milling Machine for your Business

CNC milling machines are incredibly versatile, with different types for all sizes and business needs. Where precision is key to a product‘s functioning, there isn’t a more reliable choice for machinery than Computer Numerical Control, despite the higher price point initially.

Explore our collection of CNC milling machines available online now, or look for more advice from our expert team. For further information or to discuss your needs with a professional, don’t hesitate to contact us to find out more.

If you’re not sure if a CNC milling machine is the right option for your needs, explore more rotary cutting machines like lathe machines also available.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have further queries regarding CNC milling machines, find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions here. Alternatively, why not contact us today for more information and advice by talking to our expert and friendly team? We’re on hand now to help you get the most out of your CNC milling experience.

What does CNC stand for?

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. This means that a CNC milling machine features an automated control to provide better precision, complexity and repeatability than what is usually possible with manual machining.

What is a CNC milling machine used for?

CNC milling machines are used to precisely and accurately cut metal and wood materials. However, the range of products and parts that can be cut with a CNC milling machine is almost limitless, as the machine can cut a vast array of shapes and angles.

Are CNC milling machines worth it?

If you’re wondering whether a CNC milling machine is worth its price tags, you will be pleased to know that the accuracy and efficiency possible back this up. However, if you are processing only a small quantity of products, programming time combined with the price can mean the machine is not the most economical for your needs. For this reason, we don’t recommend investing in a CNC milling machine if the planned use is for small numbers and quantities.

 

Related

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